Some people lose their ability to speak or eat normally due to certain reasons. They might have suffered from an illness, like stroke and other debilitating diseases. They could also have been involved in a certain accident, and their injuries prevent them from expressing what they want to convey. For children, they may have language disorders since birth.
Now, if you or a loved one is suffering from communication or swallowing problems, there is one good way to manage and treat your condition—seeking the help of a speech pathologist Brisbane clinics have today. With them, you will be able to assess the cause of your problem and develop a treatment programme for your road to recovery.
What Is a Speech Pathologist and How They Can Help
Sometimes referred to as “speech therapists”, speech pathologists work with patients who have physical and cognitive disorders that prevent them from communicating or eating the normal way. Usually, they are part of a rehabilitation team, working alongside physical therapists, psychologists, audiologists, occupational therapists, gastroenterologists, and physicians. They are also often seen at hospitals, rehabilitation centres, nursing homes, doctors’ offices, and private clinics, but they can also work in research laboratories and schools.
What Disabilities Do Speech Pathologists Treat
A speech pathologist Brisbane clinics have can handle a wide range of disorders in people of all ages, from toddlers to seniors. Generally speaking, here are the three areas they focus on.
Speech problems
These could be the primary area the disability services Brisbane speech pathologists provide focus on. They help treat patients with:
- Articulation disorders – slurring, indistinct phrases, and substitution of one sound for another
- Fluency issues – stuttering and cluttering
- Voice disorders – abnormal pitches and hoarseness
Language disorders
Speech pathologists also treat disorders that make it difficult for some people to communicate, such as:
- Aphasia – This is an inability to process language due to brain damage caused by stroke or head trauma.
- Pragmatic issues – These manifest when a person shows some form of difficulty in understanding communication rules and social cues.
- Learning disabilities – These include difficulties in listening, reading, writing, and reasoning that mostly affect children.
Related medical conditions
As previously mentioned, speech pathologists not only work with people having speech disorders. Along with gastroenterologists and audiologists, they also help treat people with:
- Swallowing difficulties – Formally known as “dysphagia”, this condition can lead to poor nutrition and can affect both adults and children.
- Hearing impairment – Speech pathologists help individuals, who lost their sense of hearing, develop the skills to communicate properly, like lip reading and using other forms of communication.
How Much Does Speech Pathology Cost
Cost is always a concern for most people needing speech pathology, especially when they are getting it from private practices. The prices for treatment sessions can be high, which can vary on the assessment requirements and the treatment methods used on the patient. Plus, not all private health insurance plans are designed to fully cover this form of therapy. Some insurance plans even only cover specific conditions.
Nonetheless, there are ways to save on this type of health service. For example, you can find an NDIS occupational therapist who is supported by the National Disability Insurance Scheme, which is a funding programme created by the government to support those who are in need of certain medical services, including speech pathology.
However, to be eligible for NDIS accommodation, you should be able to satisfy certain conditions, like:
- You should have a permanent disability that affects your capacity to perform day-to-day activities.
- You should not be more than 65 years of age.
- You should be an Australian citizen holding a permanent visa.
To gather more information about NDIS eligibility, you can visit their official page.
Final Thoughts
When you suspect you or a member of your family have a condition that needs the attention of a speech pathologist Brisbane clinics have today, then you should not hesitate to seek professional help. This is the best way to recover quickly and regain a normal life.
However, as patients may have unique needs, you should make sure the pathologist you choose is experienced and knowledgeable to address your particular situation. Do your research and ask for recommendations from your physician. Sure enough, this will point you to individuals who have the right expertise for your needs.
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